Syrian family overwhelmed by bike donations

The Al Diri family – mom, dad and their seven children – arrived in Shelburne just over a month ago, after having to flee their homeland of Syria with literally only the clothes on their back.

Having settled in Shelburne, with the help of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on Alder Street, Orangeville, who sponsored the family and helped with their resettlement, it seems the family are adapting to a more peaceful life.

Their English is limited so far, but all seven of the children ranging in ages from five to 12 attend Hyland Heights School in Shelburne and are making friends and enjoying the lifestyle that we live here in Canada.

Terri Ann Gawtheroupe and Paula Jones from the church told the Shelburne Free Press that the family has adapted very well in Shelburne, and now, thanks to the community, they have some new wheels.

The two ladies came up with the idea of asking the congregation at the Alder Street Church to help with donating used bicycles that their own families no longer needed or had grown out of.

It didn't take long to acquire the seven bikes that were needed.

With the kind help of Cycling Elements in Orangeville, the bike store safety checked all seven bikes and replaced anything that was needed free of charge. They also donated seven safety helmets at their own cost for the family.

Hyland Heights Elementary School presented the family with their bikes, last Friday, May 20, just in time for the long weekend.

The thrill and excitement could be heard from the children, and this surprise of new bikes was overwhelming for their father, who couldn't say thank you enough in his limited English.

A big thank you goes out to all who helped this happen, and especially Cycling Elements. If anybody would like to help reimburse this generous store with some of the cost that they covered themselves, donations would be very gratefully received.

Please call the store and speak to Jeff at 519-307-4100.

The Shelburne Police would also like to remind everybody now that summer is here, that bikers should always wear a helmet.